Hi guys. I haven't posted here in a real long time.
MindTrigger, if you only played for 3 hours I'm not suprised that's how you feel. I felt the same way initially. I played Wow for a long time and just couldn't shake the feeling it was too similar but without the stylized characters, lewts and visuals. But I persevered and played quite a few hours since then and I've come to appreciate what Turbine has attempted to do and what they've accomplished. I think its a great game, but like any game, mileage will vary depending on what you want from it. I'm not a PvPer and don't really have time to raid. I like to explore and enjoy the story aspects, partying when I can. For me, its a good mix of those things.
And, like WoW, the best parts are not in the first 10 levels of the game. The "blandness" I felt earlier has definately given way to the games own style, which I think works well here.
ZigZang